"I made a lot of sacrifices going away from home when I was 14, and this is still in my mind" - Jannik Sinner remains humble amid continued rise

Jannik Sinner defeated his compatriot Lorenzo Sonego at the Madrid Open, extending their head-to-head record to 5-0. The world No. 2 commented after the match that his good results have had no impact on their relationship as friends or Davis Cup teammates.

Sinner and Sonego have a close relationship as friends and Davis Cup teammates, being part of the team that secured the title for Italy for the first time in 48 years just a few months ago. Sinner was the absolute leader on the road to the title and they teamed up in doubles matches, securing decisive victories in the series against the Netherlands and Serbia.

When asked if he feels that success has changed him in any way, the 2024 Australian Open champion replied, "I haven’t changed because of the success. I don’t believe in these kinds of things, because the way you are as a human being is much more important than all the rest, and I always try to surround myself with good people who give me something positive. I think that’s for me the most important."

“Then of course I dream, I dream big, I dream to win as many titles as possible. I made a lot of sacrifices going away from home when I was 14, and this is still in my mind. I’m working hard every day to become a better player day after day, which is the main goal.

“When you work hard, when you wake up in the morning with the goal of becoming better, this is very important. The hours you put in, you have to be very focused about the work. But then when you finish the work, you also need people around you who are good to you, give something positive to you, and I think you have to find the right balance which I’m trying to do.”

Sinner also mentioned that he is still in the process of adapting to clay courts and hopes to reach his peak form at the upcoming French Open: "We came here quite early, so we tried to prepare in the best possible way. But in the other way, I’m working very hard in the gym physically."

"I have to accept a couple of things more while I play the match, but it’s in my mind. I know this. This is me trying to find a good rhythm here, and which the main goal is then be in top form in Roland Garros, no?"

“I think this is the goal of all of us. So, yeah, I’m just happy to be here. I mean, last year I was not able to play here, so even more excited. Then we see how it goes this year.”